About
About Author and Adventurer, Heidi Siefkas:
What do you write about?
I write what I know best, true stories. All of my books, Look Up—Global Stories of Resilience, When All Balls Drop, With New Eyes, and Cubicle to Cuba, are non-fiction. My first three are based on my trials, transformation, and adventures. However, I’ve leveled up with Look Up—Global Stories of Resilience, which is a collection of real-life stories of sheros, heros, and badasses. Look Up is a compilation of true stories from around the globe of individuals overcoming obstacles and triumphing against odds.
All stories connect to the Look Up Mantra, which reminds us all to 1) Be in the moment and 2) Find the upside. Read or listen to it, be inspired!

Where do you call home?
That’s an interesting question. As an adventurer, I’m traveling a lot. So, where do I hang my mischievous black hat or Look Up hat when I’m not on the road? I would say in Nashville, TN. However, I also make a pilgrimage to the Midwest and New England yearly to visit my hometown in Wisconsin and my clan.
Why do you encourage others to add adventure to their lives?
I’ve answered this best in my TEDx talk.
You are the creator of the Mantra Look Up. Can you explain Look Up?
The takeaway of all of my books is the power of perspective. You will read in my blog posts as well as hear me say at my events, here’s to looking up! I created Look Up as a way to quickly gain perspective wherever you are and whatever you are going through. It reminds us all to do two things:
- Be in the moment, appreciating both the beauty as well as hazards around us. In essence, be mindful.
- Spin each situation positively. Although at first, a circumstance may appear negative, all wounds, hiccups, or obstacles are opportunities.
I share Look Up with you, readers of my books, and the world. Keep it in your back pocket.
Where did you study?
Ha! I’m still studying. Every day, trip I take, or person I meet I learn. However, if you must know my alma mater, I’m a Badger from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. Also, I hold a Master’s from the University of Massachusetts at Boston. Plus, I know enough about wine to be dangerous in any group of oenophiles.
What’s on the horizon for you?
I have some BIG adventures planned.
- I’m promoting my latest book, Look Up—Global Stories of Resilience on social media, in-person speaking events, book clubs, media outlets, and more. Contact me for speaking opportunities.
- As far as travel, I’m still new to Nashville. So, I’ve been loving exploring the waterfalls and hiking trails close to Music City. If you want frequent updates, follow me on Facebook, IG, X, and YouTube.
Want to learn more? Read full bio and book summaries.